As a follow up to our popular winter blog post from a few winters ago "6 obscure winter sports in Manitoba that you need to try", we compiled another list of five lesser-known winter activities that you can do to triumph over winter.

Kiteboarding, Winnipeg

Family-owned Boost Kiteboarding in Winnipeg are the go-to folks for learning how to harness the prairie wind and snow for this adrenaline-pumping winter sport. All you need is a windy day and a flat expanse of snow (hmm, where can I find that?), and Boost Kiteboarding will take care of the rest. They provide all the gear and lessons which can be purchased on their website. They normally take people to ideal locations just outside of Winnipeg city limits such as the Red River Floodway and Lake Winnipeg.

Actif Epica Winter Ultra, St. Pierre Jolys

Actif Epica is Manitoba's only ultra endurance race in the extreme temperatures of winter. Icy temperatures, windswept trails, and big skies. Participants sign up to cycle 50 km, 115 km, or 230 km, or run 50 km, 115 km, or 160 km on two loops along the Crow Wing Trail based out of St. Pierre Jolys. Actif Epica is an annual race and takes place Feb 16-18, 2024.

SledDogging, Asessippi Ski Resort Area

If downhill skiing or snowboarding terrifies you, why not sled dog? Asessippi Ski Resort Area offers rentals of the unique ski-skate boots. If you can ice skate, you can sled dog. Sled dogs are essentially ski boots with a smooth sole that allow you to skate down a hill without the worry of tangled skis or not knowing how to slow down or stand up when you fall. You can turn, hockey-stop, cross-over - anything you can do on skates - but with the thrill of doing it downhill.

Ice Climbing Tower, St. Boniface

Winnipeg can't boast nearby mountains, but there is still a way to reach lofty heights in winter. The ice tower at Club de Escalade de St. Boniface rises 20 meters high, giving awesome views of the downtown skyline as you attempt an icy ascent. It is North America's original free-standing ice climbing tower, looking like a frozen waterfall on the banks of the Red River. The tower is open to the public (you don't have to be a member) every Saturday 9-4 pm in winter. Climbing gear is provided (dress in light layers because you will get sweaty!). Trained volunteers will eagerly instruct for all skill levels.

Full Moon Snowshoe Hikes, various locations

Chances are you have snowshoed before. Now elevate the sport by going at night, guided by moonlight. It's a glorious feeling being under the light of the full moon and stars as you crunch over the twinkling snow and through the shadows of trees. Pinawa Unplugged Eco Tours offers monthly full moon snowshoe hikes around Canadian Shield country; Trail Tutors in Dauphin takes hikers around the Northgate Trails system along the Manitoba Escarpment; FortWhyte Alive in Winnipeg regularly schedules hikes that include a bonfire and hot chocolate as a reward at the end.

For more obscure winter sports to try, check out this list "6 obscure winter sports in Manitoba that you need to try".